Queensland Health Victim Support Service Promoting Balance in the Forensic Mental Health System A Victim’s Perspective Nicole Carmichael Victim Support Coordinator, QHVSS
Overview: QHVSS- How we came about What we do Illustrate with a case study Provide additional resources
How We Came About: Media- public outcry regarding forensic mental health system Promoting Balance in the Forensic Mental Health System: Review of the Qld Mental Health Act 2000 Legislative Changes: Patient Information Orders Victim submissions/ statements Establishment of QHVSS February 2008 Courier Mail 2006
What We Do: Statewide service assisting victims of mentally ill offenders Help clients understand and navigate the forensic mental health system Mental Health Court Mental Health Review Tribunal Patient Information Orders Assistance with applications Providing approved information related to safety and wellbeing Raise awareness of victim issues Training Research
Who we assist: Victims where offender is diverted from CJS to FMHS Harmed directly or indirectly by the offence other concerned persons family members of deceased victims The “silent victims”- offender’s family
Case Study… The Offence: John (20 yrs) and Adam (19 years) were flatmates Adam entered John’s room whilst John was studying and stabbed him with a kitchen knife John suffered multiple stab wounds and taken to hospital for treatment Adam arrested and taken to the watch house Charges: Attempted murder, Unlawful wounding Adam transferred to an authorised mental health service as a classified patient
Case Study… “What happens next?” QPS identify victim and refer to QHVSS Meet with John and his parents Explain rights and entitlement to CPIO and offer support and assistance AMHS treating psychiatrist refers Adam’s mother Separate coordinators allocated Adam diagnosed with Schizophrenia Reference made to Mental Health Court
Case Study… “How does Mental Health Court work?” Mental Health Court determines criminal responsibility Deprivation of capacity; S27 Qld’s Criminal Code Assist with Victim Statement Mental Health Court Support MHC finding of Unsound Mind and a Forensic Order made Supreme Court
Mental Health Review Tribunal hearings every 6 months Submissions Confidentiality Non contact provisions Safety and recovery Case Study … “Has he gotten away with it?” Courier Mail 2006
Resources QHVSS Resources Seeking Answers, Being Heard: A Resource Guide for the Victims of Mentally Ill Offenders Contact Details:
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